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A friend of mine stopped by the office recently to talk about creating a resume. He had no specific position in mind; it had just been a while since he had made a resume. Like many people, he was beginning a new job search and looking for somewhere to start.

Starting a resume can feel daunting and many questions quickly arise. Should I use a template? What should I include and exclude when describing my jobs? How should I list my dates? Or my references?

To help my friend and anyone else getting started, I put together a list of tips for building a resume. This list combines prevailing wisdom about resume building with personal suggestions based on my experience as a hiring manager. For those with an existing resume, the list may help you assess its strengths and weaknesses.

Formatting

Consider using a resume template to get started.

A resume template will not deter the reader in most cases.

Stick to one font.

Use a simple font like Arial, Times New Roman, or Cambria.

Stay clear of using a thematic font like Comic Sans or Papyrus.

Position your name prominently at the top.

Include your address, phone number and email address next to your name.

Do not include pictures or word art.

Make sure each section is distinguishable, but avoid WRITING IN ALL CAPS.

Use bullet points on all lists.

Layout

Write an “Objective” to give a narrative or skip the “Objective” to save space.

If using an “Objective,” say something specific about what you want.

Order each section of your resume from most important to least.

For recent graduates, put “Education” at the top.

For almost everyone else, put “Work History” at the top.

If applying for an IT or technical job, put “Skills” at the top.

Skills

If not applying for an IT or technical job, put “Skills” towards the bottom.

In addition to a separate “Skills” section, explain how you have used your skills in the “Work History.”

Never list a skill that you cannot back up with education or experience.

Education

List each school you’ve attended from high school onward.

Don’t include high school if you’ve attended college.

If you’ve graduated, state that you’ve graduated.

Include your graduation date if it was within the past five years.

Add your GPA if it’s above a 3.0.

Include any certifications, licenses, awards or honors in your “Education.”

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